Newcastle United put on a show for their home fans in the 1-0 win against West Bromwich Albion last time out, and now the Toon Army need to take that performance and use it to improve their poor away record, starting with a trip to Chelsea on Saturday night.

It won't be an easy trip though as Steve McClaren still has limited options in the defensive area as he prepares to face a team who possess heaps of quality going forward.

Guus Hiddink has only been defeated once as a Chelsea boss, so McClaren will be hoping to ruin that stat as him and his side go in search of what could be a priceless win.

Background

The record between these two sides could give some indication as to which way this one may go, as Newcastle have failed to secure any points at Stamford Bridge in their last three attempts.

The last time the Magpies won there was the season they finished fifth, beating the Blues 2-0 thanks to a Papiss Cisse double. Newcastle's recent form though leaves a lot to be desired, even though there are signs of improvement.

McClaren's team have won two of their last five Premier League games, which also includes two losses and a draw. The two defeats came away from home too, so that gives the coaching team something to think about.

Chelsea, on the other hand, are still unbeaten under Hiddink this season, drawing four and winning one of their last five Premier League games.

It's been quite remarkable the change in form since the Dutchman took over, and they will be looking to continue that unbeaten run against Newcastle this Saturday.

The previous five meetings between these sides though is pretty even so it really could go either way. Chelsea have won two of them, the same as Newcastle, and just the one draw has come - which was earlier in the season.

Team News

All of Newcastle's long term injured players stay injured for this weekend's trip to Chelsea, with only Jack Colback and Emmanuel Riviere being in contention to return to the squad.

Defence is where Newcastle lack, but after this game the Magpies have 18 days off before their next match. McClaren will thus hoping that he can use the break to help some of those injured players return to the first team fold.

Gary Cahill looks set to make a welcome return to the team due to Kurt Zouma's injury and he should partner John Terry at centre back. The attacking areas though are where Chelsea could be short as Diego Costa broke his nose in a training session but still might start.

Both Loic Remy and Radamel Falcao look set to stay on the sidelines, and Alexandre Pato will probably not be included due to lack of match fitness.

Players to watch

Alexander Mitrovic: The Serbian international proved his worth against West Brom last weekend, putting in a stellar performance and notching a goal as well which won his side the game. The striker looks to be playing with some confidence now and, if given the right support against Chelsea, he will cause the Blues' defence real problems.

Mitrovic could be difficult for Chelsea to deal with. | Image: Chronicle Live

Oscar: The Brazilian starlet has been rather quiet in recent weeks for Hiddink's side, which has shown due to a lack of goals. If he starts, then this is a massive game for him in which he can dominate the midfield area. Newcastle will probably be nervous as it is knowing their away record, so what a chance for Oscar to play with some freedom and try to push the game on.